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55
POLLUTION OF RIVERS AND STREAMS
During the year 407 inspections were made to ascertain if
any evidence of pollution or obstruction was apparent in the
watercourses within the Borough and in addition samples of the
waters were taken for analysis. Appropriate action was taken
where pollution was observed.
It should be remembered that all surface water drainage in
the Borough is discharged into streams, and it is an offence to
permit a polluting material to enter surface water drainage
systems.
SMOKE ABATEMENT
The District Public Health Inspectors observe the various
factory chimneys in their respective areas with a view to detecting
the discharge of smoke or grit such as to be a nuisance. Byelaws
are in force regarding the emission of "black" smoke,
whereby it is an offence if such smoke is discharged for more
than two minutes, in total, over a period of half an hour's observation.
104 such observations were carried out and in 4 instances
black smoke was emitted for more than the statutory limit. The
Managements were immediately interviewed and informed of the
offence and advised. In 2 cases it became necessary to serve a
Statutory notice to abate smoke nuisances.
The Clean Air Act 1956 was passed during the year and although
it did not come into force until the 31st December 1956, and then
only in part, its provisions were brought to the notice of the
Health Committee with a view to action being taken early in 1957
to implement its operative sections.
AMUSEMENT HOUSES
120 inspections were made of Theatres, Music Halls, Cinemas,
Dance Halls, and premises where stage plays are given. A report
ls submitted annually to the Licensing Authorities on the sanitary
condition of these premises. Notices are issued to remedy
arV unsatisfactory conditions.